Big Dutchman presented its new PigT[oilet] for the first time at EuroTier 2018, picking up a silver medal from the DLG (German Agricultural Societry) for innovation in the process.
This novel toilet for pigs significantly reduces ammonia emissions in pig accommodation. Used in grower and finisher pens, the PigT replaces part of the floor with a porous conveyor-belt type floor made from hard plastic.
The major benefit is that urine is separated immediately by falling through the PigT floor into a collection tray, before draining straight out of the building. Solid manure, and remains on the surface and is moved to a collection area through the action of the floor moving. These solids can also then be removed at regular intervals using a scraper system.
Removing the urine so quickly has a dramatic effect on ammonia levels in a building using the PigT system. In Germany, the upper acceptable limit for ammonia in pig accommodation is 20 parts per million (ppm), but the PigT system can reduce this to 2ppm – a 90 per cent reduction.
Another benefit of the new PigT is that it means pig producers can introduce bedding and roughage materials without fear of clogging the slurry channels. This allows the pigs to search for food and to express natural behaviours that can promote animal health and welfare, and reduce stress factors that can lead to tail biting.
In the run-up to EuroTier 2018, an international expert committee appointed by the DLG awarded PigT a silver medal for innovation.
For more information visit: www.bigdutchman.de.
